Kenneth Kadirgamar

Why should young people get involved in NYW and how can they get involved?
I guess the main reason young people should get involved in NYW is to get more involved in the community and to do something that gets noticed. They can get involved in a variety of ways, either by taking part in the many events that would be happening all across Australia or even run their own event with their friends.

What are you most looking forward to for NYW 2012?
I always look forward to seeing what events young people come up with. Over the years National Youth Week has become a stage for young people to come up with very creative ways to run an event that benefits the community and it is always fun to see what they come up with.

What is it like to be a Young Member?
Being a Young Member is a fantastic position that allows me to look at the proceedings from a different perspective to what I’m used to. It places me in a position to have the opinions of young people all over the Territory heard at a National level and allows me to ensure that National Youth Week continues to grow and to flourish all over the country.

Which NYW event did you enjoy last year?
Unfortunately I wasn’t that heavily involved in National Youth Week last year but I know that the BIG GIG organised here in the Northern Territory always goes off. It is a concert that closes off proceedings of National Youth Week and allows all young people to attend and enjoy some great music in a safe environment.

If you could plan any event for NYW, what would it be and why?
I am very much into sport and am a great believer in the ability of sport to bring people together. I would run a sports carnival aimed at getting more young people involved in sports and away from the TV and video game screens.

Who or what have you been inspired by recently?
I get inspired everyday when I hear stories of young people across the world who, through hard work and perseverance have been able to achieve their dreams. To me it is a constant reminder that no matter what your background or social status, the only pre-requisite to success is to never give up.

If you were an animal, which would you be and why?
I have always been fascinated by Tigers. They are just so impressive in the way they carry themselves and are so fierce when it comes to a fight. I had the privilege of feeding a Tiger at a zoo in Canberra and it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.

Describe yourself in a single sentence.
He who is not everyday conquering some fear has not learned the secret of life!

If you had only $10 left, what would you spend it on and why?
Probably on a KFC double down!! That would probably sustain me for a few lifetimes.

Tell us something about yourself that not many people know?
When I was a little kid I went to the local zoo and rode an elephant!